The Last Exit by Terrence Davis is a book of poetry focused on closure. With his words, Mr. Davis painted a picture of the different kinds of scenarios that could possibly keep someone stuck in a rut. However, with careful consideration, we eventually realize the necessary actions needed to free us. Ending a relationship, no matter what kind, is a delicate matter and should be handled in the proper matter. Mr. Davis used careful, yet powerful words to move forward rather than be held hostage by the actions of the world around.

I was able to connect emotionally with the words from some of the poems, like “Urgency” and “Maybe Tomorrow.” Both pieces had me thinking of things that occurred in my past that has held me hostage to that specific hurtful moment. I could relate a lot to some of the lines from the latter, like “Don’t wanna admit to my/Closest friends that half of what/I told them was what I/Wanted them to believe/That I have no idea who I ever was/And who I think I want to be.” These lines made me think for a few moments.

I also liked the rhythm and rhyme of some of the poems. In “Conditionally,” I felt like the repetition of certain words and rhymes/word endings was needed to feel the emotions in the conditions/compromise within the relationship this poem focused on. “On The Writers Block” and “In The After Hours,” I liked them because they focused on writers. I especially like the latter because God is having a conversation with the writer. He is telling him that he has given him the gift of writing poetry to deliver important messages.

The Last Exit is a well thought-out collection of poetry. I found at times my eyes swelled with tears and goose bumps covered my arms. I would also like to hear some of the poems performed at an open mic night. I think that would bring an even deeper aspect to each of the poems. My one recommendation for Mr. Davis would be for him to commission the help of an editor. There were some misused words that stole some of the gusto out of a couple of poems. I recommend The Last Exit to poetry lovers and individuals looking for the right way to administer or find closure.

The author provided a copy of the book for review purposes.

Jennifer Coissiere
APOOO BookClub

Another African American book review from APOOO Books.

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